Indigenous Cattle Breeds at the Republic Day Parade

India’s 76th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi saw the first-time participation of the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying through a unique tableau. 

The tableau’s theme was “Honouring India’s Indigenous Cattle Breeds as Icons of Sustainable Rural Growth”, a tribute to the continuous and crucial role of the indigenous bovine in India’s culture and economy.

From a rich artistic heritage to the government’s commitment to the use of technology to bring more prosperity for dairy farmers under White Revolution 2.0, the tableau showed the contribution of the livestock sector in the country.

The front section of the tableau showcased a huge can filled with milk, depicting India’s dominance as the highest milk-producing nation in the world.

With a per capita availability of 471 grams per day during 2023-24, India far exceeds the global average of 329 grams per day, highlighting its vital contribution to global nutrition.

At the rear section, the tableau featured a life-size Kamadhenu, symbolizing the significance of indigenous cows in our Indian society. The Pandharpuri buffalo is prominently featured, symbolizing the richness of India’s indigenous bovine breeds, with a focus on their economic and cultural importance.

The tableau also showcased the contributions of rural communities, especially women, who play a significant role in dairy farming and cooperative activities, empowering households and fostering sustainable livelihoods.

The tableau also depicted the digital innovation which provides farmers with real-time livestock management support, the “Bharat Pashudhan” app, traditional ghee churning, and a universal vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Ghee traceability is prominently highlighted, showcasing the Bharat Pashudhan live database, which ensures complete end-to-end tracking of dairy products like Ghee. This initiative adds value to the farmer’s produce, leading to an increase in consumer’s trust in product quality.

Accompanying the tableau, the men and women bikers were seen riding innovative Bio-CNG motorcycles for transportation of milk; ‘milko-bikes equipped with milking machines which collect milk directly from animals and deliver it to collection centres or consumers.